Red Planet

She was searching for a possible solution
to save a dying planet, looked starward
for a new home, set out to colonize Mars.

Automated probes sent back news:
there is nothing there, it isn't even red;
and there is no sign of any water.

Her mother came up with a plan.
She would throw the child into the sky
and rely on perspective and good luck

to complete the mission. Her daughter put on
her best red coat and looked apprehensive.
"I'll miss you Mama," she said. "Goodbye."